ILP violation is cognizable offence, CSU insists after defaulters released
Phek, May 5 (MExN): The Chakhesang Students’ Union (CSU) has detected 21 Inner Line Permit (ILP) defaulters during a verification drive conducted across its jurisdiction in Phek from April 21 to 30, 2026, and has demanded that such cases be treated as cognizable offences under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act, 1873.
The drive, aimed at safeguarding the rights of the local populace and curbing the influx of illegal migrants, found 481 non-locals in possession of valid ILPs. Out of these, 21 defaulters were detected, 12 in Phek under contractor Sunil Debnath, 7 in Chizami under contractor Mhao Humtsoe, and 2 in Pfutsero under contractor Keviuya John Bosco Sote, the CSU said in a statement issued by President Povozo Soho and General Secretary Rhilo Chiero.
The CSU filed complaints for registration of FIRs against the 21 defaulters at respective police stations under the BEFR Act.
However, the union expressed deep concern that the defaulters were immediately released after being reported, following the issuance of ILPs by the administration on the ground that the case is non-cognizable and not subject to FIR. “It must be clearly stated that violation of ILP provisions constitutes a cognizable offence, and as such, regular cases ought to be registered,” the CSU stated. Under the BEFR Act, 1873, any person entering or remaining within the Inner Line without a valid pass is liable for punishment with imprisonment for a term which may extend to one year, to a fine not exceeding Rs 1000, or both, CSU clarified.
The CSU demanded that ILP defaulters should not be dealt with administratively but produced before the competent court for necessary action through due process of law. It also called for a separate Officer-in-Charge in every police station to ensure the proper initiation and registration of ILP violation cases.
The union further highlighted that the BEFR Act, being over 150 years old, prescribes a grossly inadequate fine of only Rs 1,000. “In 2026, such a negligible penalty fails to deter defaulters or be taken seriously,” it stated.
The CSU said it will continue to conduct ILP verification drives at regular intervals. It directed all the affiliated units and Subordinate bodies to remain vigilant and ensure that all non-locals residing or working under their respective jurisdictions possess valid ILPs, keeping in mind that safety and security of the local indigenous population remain the top priority.
